Antique Japanese Desk Cabinet for Documents, 1920–1930

A compact Japanese desk cabinet with four drawers, an open upper compartment and a deep dark lacquered finish with beautiful age-related patina.

Dimensions: height 35 cm, width 32 cm, depth 20.5 cm.

This Japanese desk cabinet dates from the late Taishō to early Shōwa period and was probably used for administration, documents and small office supplies. The remaining paper labels refer to the original organisation of the drawers, with inscriptions that appear to indicate documents, tax papers and receipts.

The cabinet has an open compartment at the top, two wide drawers below and two smaller drawers side by side at the bottom. The drawers are fitted with simple metal handles; the lower handles have decorative flower-shaped backplates. The round openings on the sides add a practical and graphic detail to the design.

The exterior has a dark lacquered finish with wear, scratches and small exposed areas where the warm wood becomes visible. The inside of the drawers is left in natural wood, creating a beautiful contrast with the sober black exterior.

A highly practical and characterful piece for contemporary use: ideal on a desk, counter or low cabinet for writing materials, papers, jewellery, small objects or creative supplies. The cabinet is in very beautiful antique condition, with patina and signs of use consistent with age and function.